Laughing All the Way to America: A Review of the Hilarious Comedy Sequel Coming to America 2 (2020)
Coming to America, released in 1988, is a beloved comedy film that has stood the test of time. Directed by John Landis and starring Eddie Murphy, the movie tells the story of Prince Akeem of Zamunda, who travels to New York City in search of true love. The film was a huge success, both critically and commercially, and has since become a cult classic. For years, fans have been eagerly anticipating a sequel, and their wishes were finally granted with the release of Coming 2 America in 2021.
The anticipation for the sequel was palpable. Fans of the original movie had been waiting over three decades for a follow-up, and the excitement was contagious. The original film had become a cultural phenomenon, with its memorable characters, quotable lines, and hilarious moments. It was a film that resonated with audiences around the world, and the sequel promised to deliver more of the same.
Key Takeaways
- “Coming to America 2” is a highly anticipated sequel to the 1988 classic comedy.
- The plot follows Prince Akeem’s return to America to find his long-lost son and heir to the throne.
- The cast includes a talented ensemble of comedians and actors, including Eddie Murphy, Arsenio Hall, and Leslie Jones.
- The humor is a perfect blend of old-school and modern comedy, with plenty of callbacks to the original film.
- The themes celebrate African culture and family values, making for a heartwarming and hilarious movie experience.
The Plot Summary: A Hilarious Journey of Prince Akeem’s Return to America
In the first movie, Prince Akeem (played by Eddie Murphy) travels to New York City with his loyal servant Semmi (played by Arsenio Hall) in search of a bride who will love him for who he is, not his royal status. He disguises himself as a poor student and finds work at a fast-food restaurant called McDowell’s. There, he meets Lisa McDowell (played by Shari Headley), whom he falls in love with.
In Coming 2 America, Prince Akeem is now the king of Zamunda and happily married to Lisa. However, he discovers that he has a son named Lavelle (played by Jermaine Fowler) from a one-night stand he had during his time in New York City. Akeem and Semmi return to America to find Lavelle and bring him back to Zamunda to groom him as the next prince.
The sequel is filled with hilarious moments and standout scenes. One of the most memorable scenes is when Akeem and Semmi visit the barbershop, where they encounter the same characters played by Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall in heavy makeup. The banter between the characters is witty and sharp, and their comedic timing is impeccable. Another standout scene is when Akeem and Lavelle participate in a traditional Zamundan dance-off, which showcases both their comedic talents and their dance skills.
The Cast and Characters: A Talented Ensemble of Comedians and Actors
Coming 2 America boasts an incredibly talented ensemble cast, featuring both returning actors from the original film and new additions. Eddie Murphy reprises his role as Prince Akeem, bringing his signature charm and comedic timing to the character once again. Arsenio Hall also returns as Semmi, Akeem’s loyal servant and best friend.
In addition to Murphy and Hall, the sequel introduces a new generation of comedic talent. Jermaine Fowler shines as Lavelle, Akeem’s long-lost son who is thrust into the world of Zamunda. Fowler brings a fresh energy to the film and holds his own alongside comedy legends like Murphy and Hall.
Other notable cast members include Leslie Jones as Lavelle’s mother, Tracy Morgan as Lavelle’s uncle, Wesley Snipes as General Izzi, and James Earl Jones reprising his role as King Jaffe Joffer. Each actor brings their own unique comedic style to the film, creating a dynamic and entertaining ensemble.
The Humor: A Perfect Blend of Old-School and Modern Comedy
| Category | Metric |
|---|---|
| Old-School Comedy | Number of classic jokes used |
| Percentage of time spent on physical comedy | |
| Number of references to classic comedians | |
| Modern Comedy | Number of pop culture references used |
| Percentage of time spent on observational humor | |
| Number of jokes related to current events | |
| Overall | Percentage of audience laughter |
| Number of jokes that appeal to all ages | |
| Number of jokes that push boundaries without being offensive |
One of the reasons why Coming to America was such a hit was its unique blend of old-school and modern comedy. The film combined classic slapstick humor with sharp wit and clever wordplay, creating a comedy that appealed to audiences of all ages. The sequel continues this tradition, delivering a perfect blend of old-school and modern comedy.
The humor in the sequel is reminiscent of the first movie, with Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall once again showcasing their comedic talents. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their banter is as sharp as ever. However, the film also incorporates modern comedy elements, such as pop culture references and social commentary.
One example of old-school comedy in the sequel is the return of the barbershop characters. Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall don heavy makeup to portray multiple characters in the barbershop scenes, engaging in hilarious conversations and debates. These scenes are a nod to the original film and a testament to Murphy and Hall’s comedic versatility.
On the other hand, modern comedy is evident in the film’s social commentary. Coming 2 America tackles issues such as gender equality and female empowerment, using humor to shed light on these important topics. The film also incorporates pop culture references, making it relatable to a younger audience.
The Themes: A Celebration of African Culture and Family Values
One of the standout aspects of Coming 2 America is its celebration of African culture and family values. The film pays homage to African traditions and customs, showcasing the beauty and richness of Zamunda. From the vibrant costumes to the traditional dances, every aspect of the film is infused with African culture.
The sequel also explores themes of family and love. Akeem’s journey to find his long-lost son is driven by his desire to uphold his family’s legacy and ensure a bright future for Zamunda. The importance of family is emphasized throughout the film, as Akeem learns valuable lessons about fatherhood and responsibility.
One heartwarming moment in the film is when Akeem reunites with his father, King Jaffe Joffer. The scene is filled with emotion as the two characters share a tender moment, reflecting on their past and looking towards the future. It is a testament to the film’s celebration of family values and the power of love.
The Music: A Nostalgic Soundtrack and New Hits
The soundtrack of Coming 2 America is a perfect blend of nostalgia and new hits. The film features iconic songs from the original movie, such as “Coming to America” by The System and “Soul Glo” by Christopher Max. These songs evoke a sense of nostalgia and transport viewers back to the world of Zamunda.
In addition to the nostalgic tracks, the sequel also introduces new songs that add a fresh energy to the film. Artists like Teyana Taylor, Megan Thee Stallion, and Davido contribute to the soundtrack, infusing it with contemporary sounds and catchy beats. The music enhances the overall viewing experience and adds another layer of enjoyment to the film.
The Direction: A Skillful and Creative Approach by Craig Brewer
Craig Brewer, known for his work on films like Hustle & Flow and Dolemite Is My Name, takes the helm as director for Coming 2 America. Brewer brings his unique vision and creative approach to the sequel, infusing it with his signature style.
Brewer’s direction is skillful and precise, capturing both the comedic moments and the heartfelt moments with equal finesse. He understands the tone of the film and knows how to balance humor with heart, creating a movie that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant.
One example of Brewer’s creative approach is his use of visual storytelling. He incorporates vibrant colors and elaborate sets to bring Zamunda and Queens to life. The attention to detail is evident in every frame, creating a visually stunning film that immerses viewers in its world.
The Production Design: A Colorful and Vibrant Representation of Zamunda and Queens
The production design of Coming 2 America is a feast for the eyes. The film showcases the opulence and grandeur of Zamunda, with its elaborate palaces and luxurious costumes. The sets are filled with vibrant colors and intricate details, creating a visually stunning backdrop for the story.
The costumes in the film are particularly noteworthy. Ruth E. Carter, who won an Academy Award for her work on Black Panther, serves as the costume designer for Coming 2 America. Her designs are a celebration of African culture, incorporating traditional fabrics and patterns into modern and stylish outfits.
The attention to detail in the production design is evident in every aspect of the film. From the ornate furniture to the intricate jewelry, every element is carefully crafted to create a visually cohesive and immersive world.
The Reception: A Positive Response from Critics and Audiences
Coming 2 America has received a positive response from both critics and audiences. Critics have praised the film for its humor, performances, and celebration of African culture. The sequel has been lauded for its ability to capture the spirit of the original movie while also bringing something new to the table.
Audiences have also embraced the film, with many expressing their love for the characters and their excitement for the sequel. Social media has been abuzz with positive reviews and discussions about favorite moments from the movie.
One anecdote that highlights the positive reception of Coming 2 America is its success on streaming platforms. The film was released on Amazon Prime Video, and it quickly became one of the most-watched movies on the platform. This demonstrates the widespread appeal of the film and its ability to resonate with audiences around the world.
The Future: A Promising Franchise and Legacy for Coming to America
With the success of Coming 2 America, there is potential for a franchise to be built around the beloved characters and world of Zamunda. The sequel has set the stage for future stories and adventures, and fans are eager to see what comes next.
The original Coming to America has left a lasting legacy in the world of comedy. It is a film that continues to be celebrated and quoted to this day. The sequel has only added to this legacy, bringing back the beloved characters and introducing new ones that audiences have quickly embraced.
In conclusion, Coming 2 America is a long-awaited sequel that lives up to the hype. It delivers on the humor, heart, and celebration of African culture that made the original film so beloved. With its talented cast, skillful direction, and vibrant production design, the sequel is a worthy addition to the Coming to America franchise. It is a film that will continue to be enjoyed for years to come and will leave audiences eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the story of Prince Akeem and Zamunda.
If you’re a fan of comedy movies and eagerly awaiting the release of Coming to America 2 in 2020, then you won’t want to miss out on this related article from Wave Magnets. They have compiled a list of must-watch comedy movies that are set to hit the big screen this year. From hilarious sequels to fresh and innovative comedies, this article is a treasure trove for comedy enthusiasts. Check it out here and get ready for a laughter-filled year at the movies!
FAQs
What is Coming to America 2?
Coming to America 2 is a comedy movie released in 2020, which is a sequel to the 1988 movie Coming to America. It follows the story of Prince Akeem of Zamunda, who returns to America to find his long-lost son and groom him to become the next king.
Who directed Coming to America 2?
Coming to America 2 was directed by Craig Brewer, an American film director, producer, and screenwriter. He is known for his work on movies such as Hustle & Flow, Black Snake Moan, and Dolemite Is My Name.
Who stars in Coming to America 2?
Coming to America 2 stars Eddie Murphy, Arsenio Hall, Jermaine Fowler, Leslie Jones, Tracy Morgan, KiKi Layne, Shari Headley, and Wesley Snipes, among others. Many of the original cast members from the first movie also make appearances in the sequel.
What is the plot of Coming to America 2?
Coming to America 2 follows the story of Prince Akeem of Zamunda, who returns to America to find his long-lost son and groom him to become the next king. Along the way, he reunites with old friends and faces new challenges as he navigates the unfamiliar territory of modern-day America.
Is Coming to America 2 a good movie?
The reception to Coming to America 2 has been mixed, with some critics praising the movie for its humor and nostalgia, while others have criticized it for its lack of originality and reliance on callbacks to the first movie. Ultimately, whether or not someone enjoys the movie is subjective and up to personal taste.
